Para-Roques Ancestral Rosat
Ancestral is a Spanish description for ‘Pet-Nat’ – naturally petillant/lightly sparkling – and a wine made by traditional vinification.
Sumoll (which in Catalan means “to wither or mature”) is a rare local varietal – and single expressions rather than blends are even rarer. The vines produce large grapes but low yields are temperamental to work with. Para-Roques Rosat is a direct press rosé from both large and small bunches; the must is kept at a constant temperature at 13-16ºC to gain the most from the varietal character – specifically the pronounced mineral attributes.
It is the most natural of L’Apical’s wines. No sulphites are added (though declared on the label as an allergen) or other additives, nor clarification or any filtration process have been used in any of its production process.
The limited production has 5 months ageing on the lees; a bottling and disgorging date is shown on the label.
Orange/salmon tints with a nice and pleasant bubble. Good aromatic intensity marked by the varietal’s bouquet of fresh citrus fruits such as pomegranates, grapefruits or strawberries. A wide range of aromas on a delicate but noticeable floral and anise background. On the palate there is a flavourful fruity evolution; the lees ageing gives a certain smoothness as well as a citric and fresh crispness. Its lively, persistent and well integrated bubbles last into the long aftertaste with a delicate and gastronomic bitterness, pleasant acidity and dry on the finish – characteristics derived from the varietal.
Food matching: A very versatile sparkling wine gastronomically: perfect for all kinds of cold starters and tapas such as prawn cocktail, carpaccio, pâtés, salads, sushi … but also very easy to combine with fish and seafood such as grilled octopus, squid and oysters … and even all kinds of vegetables, smoked food and cheeses, until you reach desserts.
It’s light sparkle has a nice ability to “degrease” the palate when eating, whilst it’s elegance make it very apt for aperitifs and toasting.
